Basin Head, Prince Edward Island
With nearly 50,000 votes, Basin Head Provincial Park was named one of the top 10 vacation spots in Canada in 2025. The beach draws visitors in, but the surrounding ecosystem rewards those who look closer; the area is surprisingly attractive to marine life and birds. The park's ecosystem supports a remarkable variety of species, including the Common Merganser, Northern Harrier, Bonaparte's Gull, Northern Shrike, and many others, each making an annual stop along their migration routes.
While at the park, explore the interpretive panels at the Basin Head Interpretive Park and the Basin Head Fisheries Museum to learn more
Basin Head Marine Protected Area
The Basin Head Marine Protected Area (MPA) is designated to protect a unique strain of Irish moss (Chondrus crispus), which is native to this area and has a higher concentration of carrageenan, a thickening agent used in products like ice cream and sunscreen. A guided tour is offered from June to September with entry to the Basin Head Fisheries Museum.
Nearby Attractions
Elmira Railway Museum
457 Elmira Road, Elmira
For many years, Elmira Station served as the end of the line for Prince Edward Island's railway. Today, displays of photographs, maps, a recreated station master's office and a ladies' waiting room recount one of the Island's fascinating stories. Ride into the past on our family-friendly miniature trackless train, railway speeder and trolley.
East Point Lighthouse
404 Lighthouse Road, East Point
East Point Lighthouse has the distinction of being “Canada’s Confederation Lighthouse” as it was built in 1867. Shop for gifts at the craft shop and look for rare and common birds from this hot spot for migrating pelagic birds.